Chelsea name new asking price for out-of-favour star, set for summer exit

Chelsea are prepared to let go of Romelu Lukaku on a permanent transfer with the Premier League club reportedly reaching a decision over his new asking price.

Lukaku joined Chelsea from Inter Milan for £97.5m in 2021and there were hopes he will deliver in his second spell at Stamford Bridge.

However, things didn’t turn out well for the Belgium international as he struggled under Thomas Tuchel before being loaned back to Inter Milan.

Ahead of the 2023/24 season, Lukaku was loaned out to Roma with Chelsea unable to attract clubs due to their asking price.

Romelu Lukaku of AS Roma during the Serie A TIM match between Atalanta BC and AS Roma at Gewiss Stadium on May 12, 2024 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Fabio Rossi/AS Roma via Getty Images)

Chelsea are now desperate to let go of the 31-year-old, preferably before June 30 given the need to meet the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability regulations.

According to Football Insider, co-owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital have reached the decision where they would accept an offer of £35m.

Report claimed Chelsea believe Lukaku has delivered value for money at Inter and Roma across the past two seasons.

Lukaku contributed 14 goals and seven assists during his one season back at Inter, while 20 strikes and four assists have been delivered in 46 appearances for Roma.

On the flip side, such is the financial situation at many clubs across Europe that they may not be able to justify meeting Chelsea’s demands for a player over 30.

Lukaku still has two years left on his contract and has been able to prove himself at every club he played except Chelsea.

Saudi Arabian clubs are tipped to make a move for Lukaku as the Belgium international hopes to sort out his future.